•  These will be my last words (promise) regarding the proposed Regent hillside development until further action is taken – which won’t happen for a long time.

As you know, I support this project and have stated my reasons why in previous issues, so I won’t go into that further. It will be exciting and interesting to see the plans change and develop as they are re-submitted  in the many required rounds of approvals. Those still opposed to it will certainly have many opportunities to express their concerns. I’m sure I’ll have plenty of opinions also.

The City Council has voted 4-1 (Monahan being the no vote) to approve the pre-screen which permits the developer to submit a formal application. This changes the zoning from HPR-4 to Neighborhood low and permits the developer to delay the Capital Improvement Deficiency Study until the CEQA review stage.

I want to congratulate the City Council on taking what I consider to be the correct action and approving the prescreen process. I would assume that the 2 members who could not vote would have also voted yes so the final vote would have been 6-1 in favor.

Kudos to Community Development Director Jeff Lambert and his planning staff for their excellent research and presentation to both the Planning Commission and the City Council regarding the project. And to Lambert for carefully explaining exactly what the prescreen approval meant. I still think that many people still do not understand that part of the process.

Also, the same goes for Regent Properties for their very comprehensive and thorough presentations. They, and their consultants, were at the meeting to answer the many questions and concerns expressed by the public speakers.

For the most part, in my opinion, the City Council members asked excellent questions that will guide them in future hearings and decisions regarding the development. They expressed many concerns that will help Regent revise their plans to obtain all of the necessary approvals.

Mayor Heitmann did an excellent job of running the meeting and those for, and against, the project acted in a very mature and respectful manner.

Those opposing this development didn’t achieve their goal of stopping the process, even though somehow they are claiming a partial victory because the “Council made clear that it was not giving tacit approval to the existing plan.” Nothing has been approved except a concept.

Some of the critics suggested that Regent should build affordable housing or contribute to a specific affordable housing development. Regent has proposed to make an undetermined but substantial in-lieu donation, but not build affordable housing at the site. Affordable housing certainly does not belong on this site.

In his summary to his “constituents,” Robert Louis Chianese, one of the leaders of the opposition group wrote the following. “I consider the vote last night as a preliminary victory. The HMP still rules and Regent has to be wondering what costs they will incur in order to meet both the Council’s new requirements and the future EIR findings. I am now willing to say publicly what I have been saying to our group: that Regent will discover the costs of mitigating all this and re-designing to meet the HMP regulations will be too much and will walk away. We have to stay diligent while that light dawns on them. They could then come back with a new fully HMP-compliant project.”

I consider this statement to be almost un-American and very-very disturbing. This is not the way you win your battle – not by making it too expensive for Regent to continue but by presenting your case and hoping that is what will stop a project. And the HMP does not rule, they are suggested guidelines and not a set code of rules. It is at the discretion of planning and City Council to decide if a project meets the intent of the HMP.

Indeed, Regent will need to spend thousands upon thousands of dollars, thousands of hours of work and several years to hopefully be able to sell the houses when they are completed. I certainly hope that this does not deter them from accomplishing their goals.

•  Once again, Ventura is considering a sales tax increase to be placed on the November, 2016 ballot. Our current sales tax rate is 7.5%. The City Council voted to spend a maximum of $80,000 to launch a campaign to inform-educate Venturans in order to persuade them to vote yes on this measure.

A private survey recently conducted shows that a majority of Venturans approve of an increase if it will improve essential city services. Only a simple majority is required to pass this sales tax increase. Depending on the amount of increase (1/2% or 1%), it could create an estimated $10-$20 million in much needed additional tax dollars.

As long as we remain a “no-growth city” we will need to find other sources of income to maintain essential services, and this is the easiest way to accomplish this.

•  I think Ben Carlson ran for president so he could sell his book – people are waiting in line at his book signings.

Trump is running, it seems, because he thinks that this is a reality show. Trump is a funny guy and if I wanted a clown for president (maybe they all are), I would certainly vote for him.

I think he is being paid by the manufacturers of buses. Trump wants to round up 11,500,000 illegals and send them back to where they came from. If we assume that means “south of the border” and each bus holds 50 occupants, it would take 230,000 bus loads. So, if he is elected, USA bus companies would be thrilled.

As stated in our cover article the Planning Commission (with a 5-1 vote) has approved the “prescreen” of the proposed 55-unit hillside development by Regency Properties. They also recommended that the City Council allow the “prescreen” to proceed at the CC Nov.30 meeting.

I’m certain that on Nov. 30 the City Council will also vote for the prescreen process to continue. After this, the project won’t likely come back to the Council for up to, possibly, two years (or more).

The Commission’s approval is not for these specific plans but only gives the “greenlight” for the City Council to approve the “prescreen”. This will allow the developer to submit an application which will start a very lengthy and very expensive process to go through environmental review (EIR) along submission to several city departments so they can make recommendations to the City Council.

After analysis, I can be included as a supporter of a 55-unit Regency project. There, I actually said it for the first time. I’m not saying I completely support the project as it is currently proposed but certainly the idea of 55 (more or less) clustered luxury homes being built in that general area.

Much of the opposition seems to be due to Regency preparing what looks like final drawings for the project, which (in my opinion) was a mistake. They submitted numerous completed drawings that were not required for a prescreen. Probably more than any developer has submitted for a prescreen in Ventura.

Because of the extent of the plans, residents were able to be very specific in their opposition. For instance, what they saw as high retaining walls, high slopes, etc. Once again, this is only a concept for the project not a final set of plans ready to be evaluated.

Developer Daniel Gryczman said, “We’re looking forward to continuing the process and creating an even greater project as we move forward.” Regency should be given that chance.

I have been accused of meeting with Regency so that they could convince me that this is a good plan for the chosen site. I did not meet with them to evaluate their drawings but to evaluate Regency, not the project. I feel that Regency builds outstanding projects. They are not a fly-by-night company but have a strong track record of building beautiful developments. I feel confident that if this project does ever move forward it will be one that we can all be proud of.

New housing, especially high-end, is desperately needed. These will be housing types that are sorely needed in Ventura. They will help to satisfy an un-met need for luxury (not quite executive) housing, and they will bring sorely needed taxes and dollars to Ventura.

As an added benefit, this type of construction would hire many construction workers that would earn from $15 to $150 per hour. This would be an added boost to our local economy and businesses.

The fact that hundreds of acres will be given to the Hillside Conservancy appeals to me. I have visited the proposed area and it would be an amazing addition to the city. It would include beautiful hiking trails which could eventually connect to the Ventura Botanical Gardens.

Those opposed have stated that if “Regency can’t follow the HMP (Hillside Management Program) that they should leave town”. The HMP is not a code, rather it is a general guideline for development projects in our hillsides which will then be considered by the City Council. The guidelines were never meant to be followed exactly but as a reference for hillside development.

At the hearing one speaker said that Regency just wants to come here to make a “quick buck.” Regency started this process with the City in 2013 and if all goes smoothly (which it never does) they might have homes for sale in 2019. Some quick buck.

Based upon current zoning, this site could accommodate 1,300 homes that could comply to the HMP (it wouldn’t happen of course).

I have heard folks say that 55 homes will put a large burden on our roads with cars constantly pouring out of the hillsides. A typical mid-town street between Main and Thompson includes approximately 45 homes, and I don’t see cars pouring out on to these streets. Currently, Ventura has about 40,000 homes, and we’re talking about adding 55 more.

There will be plenty of opportunities for all to be heard in the months ahead, so let’s relax and wait until the next phase of drawings are submitted. These plans, once submitted, will take into consideration the comments and concerns of the Planning Commission, City Council and the general public. At that point we can all decide if we are for or against the project.

It is likely that some of those opposed to the Planning Commission approving the pre-screen either don’t understand exactly what was approved or are ignoring it to make their points.

For instance, I’ve heard one commissioner, David Ferrin, quoted because he voted no to the prescreen even though he stated, “With better design I think that 55 high quality homes is feasible.” So even he is not opposed to the concept of building 55 clustered homes in the general proposed area. He voted no so his concerns for the current drawings could be heard. Again, this is irrelevant at this point because these preliminary drawings will not ultimately be what is built.

When more final plans have been prepared and submitted to the City, the Ventura Breeze will facilitate a forum where we can all review and talk about the exact proposed development.

Kudos to Dan Long, Planning Commission Chair, for running a great, civil initial public meeting. I’m sure Mayor Heitmann will achieve the same at the upcoming City Council meeting.

And the rumor that Regency Development will be giving me one of these houses for supporting this project is not true. They didn’t even buy me lunch.

•  There are new 25 MPH signs on Poli St. to reduce driving speeds. Because it is a quicker way to travel East and West, the street is used more like a highway then a residential street. In fact, it is used by a lot of people after downtown bars close. There is less chance of being stopped by the police then by using Main or Thompson. My son recently got a speeding ticket on Poli, doing 40 MPH, and the ticket cost with traffic school included is just over $300. So, beware.

I have suggested this idea previously. Since Poli runs through Ventura High School, the street is closed-off during school hours. Drivers then use Main and Thompson to go East and West as they should.

Why not just permanently close Poli at the school and make it part of the campus? Would make the school much prettier and safer and would definitely slow down traffic on Poli. It works now when the street is closed off so why not make it permanent? The VUSD would need to purchase one, or maybe two homes to accomplish this.

•  Thanks for your many opinions sent in regarding Regency’s proposed 55-house hillside project. I’m not sure why people think that I am supporting the project at this time based upon my comments. I do not know if I am for or against it yet. When I have a final opinion about whether I think it is good or bad for Ventura, I will let folks know.

I have received several emails from people who oppose the project and Regency has received many letters supporting it. In a future issue we will have much coverage about the project.

One of our writers and I recently met with Regency to see the proposed development plans and to hear what they had to say about the project. Their presentation was very professional and well-articulated. Their presentation is much more than is actually required by the City at this time in the very preliminary approval process.

Readers have been writing to me in opposition and some want to meet to show me what is wrong with the project. I appreciate the feedback, but because I have been an architect for 47 years, I will be able to review the plans and make my own decision about the merits, or downfalls, of the development.

I also understand that this project will not be what I consider “executive housing”. I was merely pointing out that Ventura needs “executive housing.”. This will certainly be luxury housing, and it might be as close as we can get with the limited land available in Ventura. Though, there is land in Ventura’s “sphere of influence” that could be looked at for executive housing at some point.

•  Regarding future building developments, on September 16, the Ventura Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) voted unanimously to annex property into the city of Ventura, marking an integral step toward development of a 70-acre project known as Focus Area One.

Focus Area One is more than 100 acres in total and includes the current Ventura Auto Center and Olivas Park, which will become a state-of-the art commercial district that will serve the City of Ventura and the region.

“This is an important milestone in our progress toward fulfilling the City’s goal of developing destination retail adjacent to our Auto Center,” said Mayor Cheryl Heitmann. “The proposed development will complement the Auto Center and will provide sought-after services to our residents.”

The LAFCO action amended the City of Ventura’s sphere of influence to include a 6.65-acre site, which formerly served as the Montalvo Community Services District wastewater treatment facility. The Montalvo plant will be decommissioned and demolished, allowing for the construction of a new road and levee that will facilitate development of the new project.

“The City has collaborated with the private investment community for years to design and construct the infrastructure needed to support development at this site,” said City Manager Mark Watkins.  “This latest action is a victory for the project and for the City as a whole. This is a high-profile development site along the 101 corridor; it will be a great asset to the City,” said Watkins.

•  As I’m sure you have heard, there was a proposal to include some paid parking in the Downtown parking structure. I hear people against this idea saying, “look what happened when they put parking meters in Downtown. Look what they did to business.”

So, conducting an impromptu experiment, I wanted to see first-hand the impact they are having. I drove Downtown (11:30am on a Wednesday) and counted the empty spaces (not including the 24-minute parking spaces). There were 3 empty spaces on the North side of Main and 5 on the South side. A total of only 8 empty spaces, so the parking meters have had little, or no effect on people parking in Downtown.

The good news is that Ventura’s City Manager has released a statement announcing negotiations are continuing, but settlement options for the Santa Clara Parking Structure do not include paid parking.

According to Watkins, “Over the last few weeks, the City has heard from concerned citizens about the proposed changes to the Santa Clara parking structure. We recognize that this is a significant issue that matters to our community. Listening to the voices of our residents, we are further negotiating with the interested parties to continue to explore options that do not include paid parking.”

In addition, Watkins announced the parking structure item has been moved to the City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2. It had been scheduled for Oct. 26.

•  Channel Islands National Park Superintendent, Russell Galipeau, has announced the release of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) to replace the pier at Scorpion Anchorage on East Santa Cruz Island.

The park plans to replace the existing pier to provide safe accessible, efficient, and sustainable access for visitors and park staff.

Public involvement is essential to the success of the project. Interested individuals, organizations, and agencies can submit comments at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/ScorpionPier.

Comments can also be mailed to:
Scorpion Pier Project
Channel Islands National Park
1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001

•  Once again, Ventura is considering a sales tax increase to be included on the November 2016 ballot. Our current sales tax rate is 7.5%. The City Council voted to spend a maximum of $80,000 to launch a campaign to inform/educate Venturans to persuade them to vote yes in this election.

A private survey conducted recently shows that a majority of Venturans would approve an increase if the revenue generated would improve essential city services. Only a simple majority is required to pass this sales tax increase. Depending on the amount of increase (1/2% or 1%), the new revenue could reach an estimated $10-$20 million a year.

• As detailed in a recent issue of the Breeze, there has been great controversy over the potential opening of a strip club on Market St. Even though millions (it seemed like) of citizens showed up at a City Council meeting in opposition to the club, they could not stop it from opening because it is an allowed use at the proposed location. The City Council reversed its staff recommendation to not allow the club, so it still might be opening once a business license is obtained and the necessary remodeling is completed.

The only recourse the City could take was to pass an ordinance that sets the conditions under which the club can operate. You can read it at www.cityofventura.net/meeting/city-council-meeting-335 (Item no. 3). It is 48 pages long but most of the document just shows the legal justification for the ordinance. Some of the text is pretty amusing because it had to be rather descriptive.

If the business owner feels that the conditions of the ordinance are too restrictive (for instance, if it allowed the club to open only one hour per day), he could still sue the City for denying him his legal right to run the business if conditions are overly restrictive. He still might sue the City, anyway, for other law violations where he thinks the City may have overstepped during this process.

If the club does opens, I have an idea. Since it would be located very close to the DMV, and people hate sitting there waiting for their numbers to be called, they could just be given (if they chose) buzzers like restaurants provide and go to the strip club until they are buzzed.

Joe’s Crab Shack has been closed for a future development.

• Joe’s Crab Shack (located on Sanjon) has closed after 12 years of operation. The next closest location is in Redondo Beach.

The property was purchased by developers (oh no, the dreaded D word). The group hopes to develop the entire “triangle site,” as it is referred to. There have been previous attempts to develop this property. The current proposal calls for around 235 luxury apartments. The planning is in its very early stages, and because of the many City and Coastal Commission approvals required, it would take many years before development would occur.

There are those that are for the preservation of historical structures and  think that the restaurant is an important building in Ventura’s history. They believe that the building would qualify as being “exceptionally significant.” A writer for the Star recently wrote a comment suggesting that the design was influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright.

From my perspective, there isn’t anything significant about this non-descript, poorly designed building, and I see no problem with it being demolished. I’m sure Wright would turn over in his grave at the mere suggestion that this building was influenced by him, as he is argued by many to be history’s greatest architect. Certainly, as a retired architect he gets my vote.

By the way, I think that the proposed apartment design is very bad also and hope that it is rejected by the Design Review Committee. I’ll include an image of it in the next issue.

This is a great piece of property with wonderful ocean views. It should be enjoyed by more than just the homeless living on it. It’s unfortunate that the City doesn’t have the means to acquire it, as it would make an exceptional park.

• I find this to be somewhat amusing, but it makes sense when you think about it. On September 23, the Ventura Police Motor Unit conducted a “Court sting operation” to cite individuals leaving the facility driving after having their driver’s licenses suspended or revoked. In addition, another “stakeout” was looking to catch repeat DUI offender probationers who also had suspended or revoked driver’s licenses.

As a result of these operations, two drivers were cited for driving with suspended licenses while leaving court. An additional two drivers were cited for driving with suspended licenses, two more were cited for driving without a license, five others were cited for miscellaneous traffic violations, and four vehicles were impounded.

These operations were run as part of a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) which is a year-long program aimed at preventing deaths and injuries on our roadways through special enforcement and public awareness efforts.  The grant aids the city’s ongoing effort to improve traffic safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods.

• Regent Properties is planning a large hillside development. It is in a very early planning stage. The Breeze has included some guest columns regarding this controversial project.

Their plan includes the donation of approximately 720 acres to the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy.

The two parties have entered into an agreement that would result in Regent’s donation of the acreage to the Conservancy. This would create public open space and trails for all of us to enjoy this amazing hillside property.

The “La Viera” project proposes to develop 40 of the 215 acre residential zoned parcel of the site for 55 luxury homes.

We will include additional articles regarding this project in future issues.

• I’m picking on e-cigarettes again. Seen in a recent LA Times: “For teens and young adults, e-cigarettes could be a gateway drug toward smoking traditional cigarettes, according to a new paper published by JAMA Pediatrics.” The study revealed that young nonsmokers who showed no interest in smoking were more likely to take up the habit if they used electronic cigarettes.

• I like to check and validate odd things (what a surprise). The caffeine in a 16 oz. bottle of Coke is 48 mg, in a 2 oz. energy drink it’s 200 mg, and a 16 oz. cup of coffee contains 333 mg. Therefore, per ounce, energy drinks contain much higher concentrations than the other drinks, but a cup of coffee is almost double that of an energy drink. So, why pay the premium for energy drinks (their energy is derived from caffeine), when you can drink coffee at a fraction of the cost (and you can make it yourself)?

Scamp’s cousin Dolce Vita wishes you a happy Jewish New Year 5776 and Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year for Jewish people starting at sundown on Sept. 22 .

I received this email from Elizabeth Kirmo.

“Dear Sheldon,

Sending you this note just in case you haven’t heard what’s happening (proposed not happening yet) at 4721 Market Street, Ventura.   Hala Enterprises LLC, has applied to the planning commission to open a full nude “gentleman’s club“.   Everyone I have talked to is shocked and outraged that this has been kept a secret.  I’ve come to understand after talking to persons at the planning commission that no announcement was required since they did not apply for a liquor license.

Well, now the information is out and citizens have a right to know.  Hala’s request has been temporarily denied by the planning commission but they have appealed the ruling.   A formal appeal meeting has been set in front of the planning commission for some time in mid to late October.

With your contacts in the city and as a paper known to fight for the rights of Ventura citizens, I hope The Breeze can help inform the people of our lovely city of something that could potentially change their quality of life without ever being aware of it.

I’m sure the business owners on Market Street and surrounding area who are aware of what’s happening would be glad to talk to you.

Thank you for your time and consideration.”

I understand your concern but this is much more complicated than you would assume. First of all, their application was not denied by the planning commission, as it has not yet gone to them.

In August the City rejected an application by Agassi Halajyan to open a strip club with nude performers at 4721 Market St. Community Development Director Jeff Lambert rejected the proposal because the proposed site is within 500 feet of ABC Auto Care, whose owner said he runs an automotive training facility for high school students.

You, and other citizens were not informed because in most cases the City is not required to inform residents of proposed projects. If they were going to sell liquor (they aren’t) they would need to get an ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Commission) license that would require notification of a limited amount of adjacent property owners.

Or, if someone is requesting a variance from an existing code, neighbors need to be notified. For instance if your  neighbor was requesting permission to reduce their required front yard from 20’ to 10’ you would be notified and could attend hearings. But because, under current code, this use is allowed (and they are not requesting any code deviations)notification is not required.

Jeff Lambert’s reason for rejecting the application is being questioned by the applicant. Halajyan has appealed the decision, claiming that ABC Auto Care does not have a  business license to operate as a school and has not been performing as such. Lambert said that he  planned to look at auto facility more closely to determine if it is indeed a school.

If Lambert maintains his position to disallow the use, Agassi Halajyan will certainly appeal the decision to the Planning Commission. If they uphold Lambert’s decision, Halajyan would then appeal to the City Council. If the Council agreed with the ruling, Halajyan would likely sue the City.

Courts have ruled uniformly that adult businesses cannot be prohibited as they are protected by First Amendment speech. The courts cannot decide cases because they “might” find the use in bad taste. Halajyan would probably win his case if he decides to take his argument to court.

Resident’s concerns, regarding adult businesses have caught the attention of the City Council. During the City Council meeting on September 14, the Council voted unanimously to adopt an urgency ordinance amendment to the San Buenaventura Municipal Code.

This amendment added licensing provisions, operational regulations, and permitting provisions for performers and non-performers of adult-oriented businesses. The ordinance was enhanced to reduce and/or preclude undesirable secondary effects including, but not limited to, increased crime, blighting influences in the community, decrease in property values, and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. The urgency ordinance is effective immediately; the regular ordinance, which was introduced on the same evening, will be heard by the City Council for a second reading on September 21, 2015. The City last updated its adult business provisions in 1994.

Six months ago Donald Trump was sitting around with some friends (probably drinking) and said “Guys I have this hilarious idea I’m going to run for president and be completely outrageous. Good for a few good laughs and free publicity.” I think CNN and Fox are secretly paying him to boost their ratings.

Livability.com has selected Ventura as the 23^rd most livable city (still pretty good). Go to www.venturabreeze.com to read the whole story.

A little about -“Why Ventura, CA is Top 100 Best Place to Live”

Warm weather, beaches, and a vibrant arts scene make Ventura an easy sell

“With near-perfect weather, ocean and mountain views, a thriving arts community, and endless recreation, dining, and entertainment options, there really isn’t much not to like about Ventura, California.”

I want to congratulate the Masons of California for placing a cornerstone during an ancient ceremony held at Community Memorial Hospital. This ceremony is part of the new construction of the hospital that is still about a year away from completion. I know that it looks closer than that but there is a huge amount of mechanical lines and equipment to still be installed.

I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.
~ Louise May Alcott

~ In this issue, we have Unsung Hero portrait number 3 in our current series. I want to thank Sam, the owner of the Rhumb Line restaurant, for being such a gracious host at the luncheon and our waitress Heather for taking such good care of us. Wonderful food and the best view in Ventura watching the boats go by day or night.

~ Five portraits from The Face of Ventura series by Johanna Spinks, are currently on display at the Museum of Ventura County’s current exhibit of portraits. See our Ventura Art Scene section for more details.

~ The Saturday night concert series at Ventura’s coolest summer outdoor night club, the historic Olivas Adobe, concludes on September 5 with Lisa Haley & the Zydekats. It’s too late to get tickets for this sold out event but be sure to attend a concert next year to hear great bands, enjoy a big dance floor, BYO dining, and gourmet food and coffee trucks along with full beverage service. The City’s Music Under The Stars concerts are growing in popularity. It’s a great, intimate, venue and a fun way to spend 8 Saturday nights each Summer.
Talking about concert series, it seems that the proposed concert series planned above City Hall may not be happening soon. I haven’t been able to get a good answer from anyone at the City regarding this, but there doesn’t appear to be positive movement.

~ It is absurd these days that 55-year old people are considered to be seniors in many programs. That was fine when the average life age was 65. It seems that today to be considered a senior the age should be at least 65. Anyone who is 55 and considers themselves to be a senior better get out and get some physical and mental exercise. What would I be considered to be, a dinosaur?

~ Recently, San Buenaventura was selected by a magazine as the best city in America to live and now “Ventura County” has been selected as the absolute most desirable place to live in America. This selection was made by the Washington Post looking at over 3,000 counties.Friends of the Library and TAG won 1st place in the County Fair Parade for Novelty Entry. And the Bookworm won a trophy.
Friends of the Library and TAG won 1st place in the County Fair Parade for Novelty Entry. And the Bookworm won a trophy.

Furthermore, in their rankings of the best counties in the continental US all of the top 10 ranked counties are in California.Humboldt was second and Santa Barbara third.
The index that they used to make their selections combines “six measures of climate, topography, and water area that reflect environmental qualities most people prefer.” Those qualities, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, include mild, sunny winters, temperate summers, low humidity, topographic variation, and access to a body of water (not one word about reading the Ventura Breeze).

~ I have always felt that “vaping” was just another excuse to smoke. Now there is bad and good news about vaping. Although smoking by teens has been dropping, the bad news is that teens using e-cigarettes are far more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes than their peers. The good news is when they realize how stupid it is to smoke they can go to vaping as a way to stop smoking.
I’m sure that I will hear from some readers (I hope), who say that vaping is much less hazardous than tobacco, but it is too early to make such a claim until much more research is done. All we know is that companies similar to Vapeboss are heavily investing in research to ensure their products are ‘healthier’ than traditional tobacco cigarettes. So, maybe don’t throwaway your vape pen stand just yet.

~ In a June, 2014 issue of the Breeze, an article stated that the “Harbor Community Church has filed a lawsuit against the City of Ventura signaling the start of the next round in the fight over the church’s controversial homeless program. The program, which provides meals, showers and religious worship to a primarily homeless population has been accused of being the source of a significant uprising in criminal activity in a once quiet residential neighborhood, was reopened again by the church after the
lawsuit was filed.”
The article said, “Last month, the City’s Planning Commission denied the church a conditional-use permit citing the program, called Operation Embrace, was not appropriate for its location next to an elementary school, park and day care facility.”
At the time, temporary City Attorney Juli Scott reported Harbor Church pastor Sam Gallucci sent her an email stating he was going to consult with church elders to decide whether the church would sue. The following day, the church filed a lawsuit and restarted its services.
Scott said the City was disappointed with the lawsuit and had hoped the church would be willing to work with the City to find a collaborative approach to providing their services in a way that would be less impactful on the neighborhood. She pointed to other organizations that provide services for the homeless who had worked with the City including the Salvation Army, Lutheran Social Services, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and Project Understanding.
The suit argued the church’s First Amendment freedom of religion rights have been violated and also cites the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.
After all attempts at mediation have failed, this on-going disagreement continues. Harbor Community Church is seeking an injunction so it may reopen Operation Embrace until a final decision is reached by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals who will hear their case.
Neighbors have complained that the program drew a homeless population that was not compatible with the residential neighborhood, especially with a school and park located very near the church.
I have to agree with the neighbors and the city. I think that the allowed uses of structures should be based on proper zoning and the nature of the surrounding neighborhoods.
A church could claim that because of their “freedom of religion rights” they can provide any services that they think this right gives them. There are some wonderful programs that serve the homeless in Ventura, but they are located in appropriate locations.

Logic will get you from A to Z, imagination will get you everywhere.
~ Albert Einstein

In a recent article, I stated “…and speaking of the bible, I thought it was pretty impressive launching a paper while in my seventies, but Noah built a 40 foot boat, with 3 levels when he was 630 years old. And without power tools. What a show-off.” There was a typo, any 630-year old could build a forty foot boat, but Noah built a 400 foot boat. I assume that giraffes were on the supper open deck. And some people would think some dinosaurs as well. I’m really sad to see Ann Deal and her firm, Fashion Forms, moving to Austin. Ventura lost employees, taxes and one of the very large contributors to our local arts and culture scene. She will be missed. Luckily, we still have some wonderful contributors living here.

Another great reason to live in Ventura is that, within 30 minutes, camping is available at several locations, and these sites are right on the water. We just spent 3-days camping (if that what it is called when in an RV) at Emma Woods, which is about 5-10 minutes from Ventura. Ventura is indeed a great place to live.

How’s this for some tech support? My HP printer was not working properly, and after about 30-minutes on the phone with their tech person, he told me my printer was history and I needed to buy a new one (he also gave me prices for new units). So I unplug it for the night, so I can buy a new one the next day. The next morning I plugged it back in, out of curiosity, and it worked just fine andhas continued to work ever since.

I think that our TV mentality has taken over the Republican Party. What other explanation is there for Donald Trump to be the leading candidate except that some people think that politics is now a reality TV show. I heard one supporter say, “I don’t believe in anything that he is saying but I would vote for him for having the courage to say it.” Great criteria for voting for our president. His first proclamation as president might be, “We are building the Great Wall of America.”

My home water usage was down 21% from last year’s same billing period. I think that is about as good as my wife and I (and Scamp) can do. How are you doing with your reduction?

If your water has had the smell and taste of alfalfa, it is coming from Lake Casitas. The water is safe to drink, but I can’t imagine anyone drinking it. Maybe it would add a new taste to pasta. This is a yearly occurrence as algae blooms when the weather warms up. Officials assure us that the water is treated and meets all requirements to be drinking water. You can call them if you have questions or concerns at 649-2251.

I am very proud of the Ventura City Council’s recent action to defer approval of a proposed city grading ordinance. Although well intended, the ordinance sets the conditions for when a grading permit is required, but goes much too far. The ordinance would require residents to be notified within a 300 foot radius of any proposed grading, which is fine. The Council is in general agreement with the proposed ordinance but, as was pointed out by a few speakers, it would have too large an impact on smaller properties and minor grading projects. For instance, if passed, it would have required a grading permit and soil reports for any retaining wall project over 3-foot high, which could add thousands of dollars, and added time, to minor residential projects. A few years ago, a homeowner did extensive grading without securing any permits, which, of course, upset his neighbors. It was not very clear with the existing ordinances if a permit was required, which was the catalyst for a new ordinance to clearly define when a permit is required. The Council requested staff to take a closer look at the ordinance and bring it back for re-review at a future date. Staff will receive more input and recommendations from contractors, building associations and the public.

The homeless issue remains a huge problem in Ventura. Solutions are usually very expensive and not affordable by smaller cities. Los Angeles City and County are combining to expand homeless outreach teams on Skid Row with the hope of reducing the homeless population there by 25%. Between city and county, funds of about $400,000 are available to get the program started. The new program will include mental health, medical, and substance abuse professionals. It is estimated that about one-third of the homeless are mentally ill.

The LA County Board of Supervisors has also approved the building of a state-of-the art jail focused on housing the mentally ill and providing mental health treatment. Mentally ill represent about 20% of the inmate population. Locally, there will not be a inter shelter available that will serve the homeless. The Army National Guard Armory, run by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, will not be available because the Society has decided that their time and money should be spent on other more permanent solutions. Without the their support, the armory is too expensive to use.

Both Oxnard and Ventura are both looking for a new location for a winter shelter. Several locations that have been considered would not work because of zoning laws – even when located in industrial areas. Peter Brown, who is now the homeless coordinator for both Oxnard and Ventura, is actively trying to solve this problem. He is seeking a location and funding, with a possible source for funding being FEMA.

“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”

– George Bernard Shaw

• I am very concerned about what Ventura will look like as a result of people not watering their lawns. I have already seen streets where there are 4-6 homes in a row whose front yards are now dirt and weeds. And shortly, it is likely these residents will be parking cars and trucks on their front lawns as well.
I know that we must save water, but properly maintained grass can be watered per Ventura’s restrictions and still look pretty good (better than dirt).
I think that there are folks who just don’t care what their houses look like and will use this as an excuse to let their landscaping die.
I’m not too sure if residents cutting back 20-30% on water use will make much of a difference anyway, as this amounts to about 3% of the water used in California.
• Hate to see Scott Miller retire (see cover article) as our Harbor Master. He did a great job and always sent us the Harbor blotter information. Look forward to working with the new Harbor Master who will be chosen from current Harbor employees. I like that we’re staying within Ventura’s ranks.
• Ventura will soon have another beer brewery doing business (becoming the brew capital of the world). Topa Topa Brewing Co. will be opening on west Thompson. Stopped in and met one of the owners. The stainless steel equipment is gorgeous. They equipment is made in Brazil and installers came from Brazil as well. After they open, it’s worth going there to just see the facility. That is what I’ll be doing because I don’t drink beer.
• The Breeze had booths at the Family Fest at the Mall, Paint Ventura and at Eco Fest (until the wind tried to blow all of the vendors out to sea). Met a lot of nice people. We will be at the Museum on May 3rd at a boutique event. Event is free and it is free admission Sunday to the Museum. So Stop by to say hi.
•From the LA Times: “The use of electronic cigarettes by high school students tripled from 2013 to 2014 a surprising boom that threatens to wipe out hard won gains in the fight against teen smoking, a new government report says.”
The good news is that 4 people stopped smoking because of e-cigarettes. If you read my column (who doesn’t?) you know that I have been opposed to them from day one (there goes our potential vape advertisers).
The City Council will be adding e-cigarettes to our smoking standards by amending Chapter 8.350 of the San Buenaventura Municipal Code, “Smoking Regulations.” This will specify e-cigarettes as prohibited in all areas where smoking is not allowed, and to increase areas where
smoking is not permitted.
This should be adopted by the Council at their meeting on May 11.
• Too bad Sarah Palin isn’t running for president. Russian aircraft have been flying very close to Alaska, and she might be able to see them which would greatly expand her knowledge of U. S. foreign policy.
• Downtown Los Angeles and thirteen other Southern California cities have had their hottest March since record keeping started in 1877. We all know that this is cyclical and in 2153 March will probably be cooler.
• Who would think a species of tiny hands can change the ecology of our Santa Cruz Islands. The Argentine ants are spreading on the island and could cause damage to the natural ecology by eliminating all of the other ant species. Ways to eliminate these ants are being studied (perhaps putting ant-eaters on the Island would help, but how would they determine the good ants from the bad ants? The ones in my kitchen are always bad.
• Even before Governor Jerry Brown ordered mandatory water restrictions, the General Services Agency for the County of Ventura was dramatically reducing the amount of water used at county-maintained facilities and parks.
Less than 6% of the County’s parkland – including the three golf courses – is irrigated. Where irrigation does exist, the grounds are primarily watered with reclaimed or recycled water. This has led to a significant savings of water usage.
• As bothersome as email hackers are, I recently received a message from a dead relative – this was extremely disturbing (unless they have Wi-Fi in heaven).
•The company that recently bought Carrow’s and Coco’s restaurants has closed several of the stores including the Coco’s located on Telegraph. We will continue to place a few papers in the rack located there for the time being for those who are used to grabbing a copy there.
• To the loud applause of those attending a recent City Council meeting, the City Council has approved a long term lease, and the rezoning, for the property that will become the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Contrary to the normal protocol, Mayor Heitmann allowed the audience to go ahead and clap, (she likely couldn’t have stopped them anyway). Hiking the trail at the future site continues to be popular. Just park at the upper lot above City Hall and you’ll see the trail head.
• In another City Council action, the Council directed the finance department to come back to them with information on how much revenue would be generated with a sales tax increase of one-half cent or one-cent . Ventura voters turned down such an increase the last time it was on the ballot.
•The Ventura Unified School district’s headquarters will be renamed (does it have a name now?) in honor of retiring Superintendent Dr. Trudy Tuttle Arriaga. The building will now be the Trudy Tuttle Arriaga Education Service Center, though I’m sure will still be referred to as the school district site. She is retiring after 14-years as Superintendent.
• Before you start feeling badly about oil companies (because gas prices are low again), Royal Dutch Shell has offered to buy BG Group for $70 billion dollars.